Job Description

Head, Singapore National Biofilm Consortium, Consortium Management Office

Found everywhere with moisture and nutrients, biofilms are the default mode of life for microorganisms. Clumps that clog pipes and plaque on our teeth are common examples of biofilms. Globally, the adverse effects of biofilms cost billions of dollars every year due to energy losses, equipment damage, product contamination and medical infections and treatments. The NIH estimates that about 80% of all human infections are biofilm-related, with the majority of all chronic infections attributed to biofilms.

On the other hand, Biofilms are nature?s recyclers. They play an integral role in the biogeochemical cycles in every ecosystem on the planet. Without microbial biofilms nutrient cycling would not be possible and the constant regeneration of natural ? and engineered ? systems would cease. Biofilms can also be put to work in industrial and agricultural settings, treating wastewater for reuse, acting as biobarriers to protect the soil from contamination and bioremediating contaminated land and waterways.

A biofilm assemblage can be formed by a singular species of bacteria, but biofilms are mostly communities made up of multiple species of bacteria, fungi, algae and other microorganisms. Scientists are seeking ways to control the behaviour of microbial biofilm communities and microbiomes for sustainable environmental, engineering, public health and medical applications.

Singapore National Biofilm Consortium is fostering collaborative research and translational projects involving academics from different IHLs, local agencies and industry partners. In addition to accessing SCELSE?s research expertise and network, consortium members can participate in training and workshops.

Duties and Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

• Plan and strategize outreach and engagement with industry
• Lead Consortium?s communication strategy
• Communicate and engage with the Consortium?s academic and industry members
• Initiating and facilitating translational research collaborations
• Budgeting and finance planning
• All reporting-related activities
• Supervise work of assistant head and executive officer within the SNBC team

Qualifications

• Bachelors (with at least 5-7 working experience), or Master?s, or PhD (with at least 2 years working) in biotechnology, life sciences, engineering, or related field from a reputable university
• Knowledge in microbial biofilms and microbiomes is ideal
• Possess an understanding of the local biotechnology ecosystem and stakeholders
• Excellent organization and communication skills (both verbal and written)
• Ability to initiate, coordinate, and finalize projects
• Experience in organizing, hosting events and presenting in public is an added advantage

The above eligibility criteria are not exhaustive. A*STAR may include additional selection criteria based on its prevailing recruitment policies. These policies may be amended from time to time without notice. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
Type of Employment : Full-Time
Work Location : Fusionopolis